10 Best Places to Paddle Within 90 Minutes of Tampa
There’s no shortage of places to paddle in the Tampa Bay Area. From mangrove tunnels to spring-fed rivers and hidden inland gems, here are ten of my favorite spots within 90 minutes of Tampa.
1. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park in Hernando County
The Weeki Wachee River is one of the most stunning places to paddle in the Tampa Bay Area. Book a paddle board, kayak, or private vessel launch in advance through Weeki Fresh Water Adventures to begin your adventure at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Float downriver for about 90 minutes to two hours before taking a shuttle back to your car.
2. Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park in Port Richey
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park is a hidden gem protecting four miles of coastline in Pasco County. Explore salt springs or paddle to historic stilt houses and a small island. There is no launch fee for private vessels. Kayak and canoe rentals are available through my company, Salty Dog Kayak Rentals.
RELATED: Kayak to a Small Island & Historic Stilt Houses North of Tampa
3. Shell Key Preserve in Pinellas County
Shell Key is a beautiful, protected barrier island south of St. Pete Beach. The public is only allowed on the northern and southern sections because the central core is used for conservation. Park at Butler Hole (2800 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde) to launch your own kayak. Or, rent from a variety of vendors (best to reserve in advance). Want to explore with a guide? Clear kayak tours are available to Shell Key through Get Up and Go Tampa Bay.
4. Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg
Some of the best mangrove tunnels in the Tampa Bay Area are found at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Pete. On the four-mile loop, weave through tight tunnels and enjoy sweeping views of Tampa Bay. Launch your own kayak at the pier or rent from ECOmersion. Just check the tide. You need at least a foot of water to get through the tunnels.
5. Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River
Three Sisters Springs is a popular spot throughout the year in Crystal River, the "Manatee Capital of the World." Swimmers and paddlers are allowed in the springs between April and mid-November. After that, water access closes so manatees can gather undisturbed when the weather gets cold. Launch from Hunter Springs Park if you have your own kayak or rent from one of several outfitters, including Waterfront Adventures.
RELATED: Crystal River Travel Guide | Manatee Capital of the World
6. Hillsborough River State Park in Thonotosassa
Kayakers and canoers can experience a gorgeous stretch of the Hillsborough River at Hillsborough River State Park. The launch is downriver from Class II river rapids, which are rare in Florida. Rentals are available on-site through FloVibez, or you can bring your own. And yes, you will likely see plenty of alligators along the way!
7. Seven Sisters Springs in Homosassa
Seven Sisters Springs, on the Chassahowitzka River, is especially popular during the summer. You’ll often find visitors snorkeling through the underwater tunnels. Getting there is easy: launch or rent a kayak at Chassahowitzka River Campground. There is a small parking fee. If you're up for a longer adventure, continue to "The Crack," which is downriver from Seven Sisters Springs and accessed via Baird Creek.
8. Robinson Preserve in Bradenton
Robinson Preserve is an incredible natural resource in Manatee County, between Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. The 600-acre preserve has multiple entrances, but the North Entrance (1704 99th Street Northwest) is ideal for exploring both the preserve and the Manatee River. Rent from Kayak Jacks or take a tour with Get Up and Go Robinson Preserve.
9. Caladesi Island State Park in Dunedin
Immerse yourself in even more mangrove tunnels at Caladesi Island State Park. Take the Caladesi Island Ferry from Honeymoon Island State Park and rent from the on-site concessionaire. Be sure to pack bug spray because the mosquitoes in the tunnels can be relentless, depending on the time of year. Another option is paddling to Caladesi Island from the Dunedin Causeway. However, use extreme caution if you choose this route. You'll need to cross a busy boat channel, and the tides and currents around Hurricane Pass can be challenging.
10. Little Manatee River in Wimauma
Discover an unexpected gem just south of Tampa as you look for manatees, alligators, and plenty of birds. The Little Manatee River is easily accessed through Canoe Outpost in Wimauma. Float 6.5 miles downstream before catching the shuttle back. During certain months of the year, you can book one of their Moonlight Paddles, which include a halfway stop for dinner, music, and a shuttle ride back to the launch.
